Artificial intelligence to be showcased at Bronx Chamber of Commerce’s upcoming gala
By Ethan MarshallPosted on
The humanoid AI *SOPHIA* will be the Master of Ceremonies at the Bronx Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 gala.
Photo courtesy of Hanson Robotics
Sign up for our Bronx Times email newsletter to get news, updates, and local insights delivered straight to your inbox!
The Bronx Chamber of Commerce will showcase the advancements of artificial intelligence during its 21st annual Bronx Chamber gala, which will be held on Thursday, Sept. 19, at Marina del Rey Caterers, located at 1 Marina Dr.
This year’s gala will feature a unique Master of Ceremonies in *SOPHIA,* an AI-powered humanoid created by Hanson Robotics. According to Hanson Robotics, this artificial intelligence was created with a persona “combining cutting-edge work in symbolic AI, neural networks, expert systems, machine perception, conversational natural language processing, adaptive motor control and cognitive architecture.”
News, events, culture and more — delivered to you.
Thank you for subscribing!
*SOPHIA* is capable of recognizing human faces, noticing emotional expressions, and providing human-like emotional responses. She can also generate her own ideas and behaviors and hold meaningful conversations with people. *SOPHIA* has also been designed to conduct medical, educational, and scientific research.
“The Bronx Chamber is thrilled to be the first association to feature the one-of-a-kind * SOPHIA * and provide an experience for the Chamber network to experience her vast capabilities, demystifying AI and demonstrating its potential to fuel the growth of our business community,” said Lisa Sorin, President of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to gathering with over 600 members, partners and supporters to recognize the contributions of our honorees with an eye toward the future of commerce in our borough and beyond.”
Four organizations will be honored at this year’s gala for demonstrating their commitment to strengthening the Bronx business community through their distinct contributions. DJ Ambulette will be awarded Business of the Year, Monroe College will be named Community Organization of the Year, Lemle and Wolff Companies will be named Developer of the Year, and Amazon will receive the Joseph P. Kelleher Excellence Award.
“Our honorees this year exemplify the innovation, dedication and resilience that drive the Bronx forward,” said Anthony Mormile, Chairman of the Bronx Chamber Board of Directors. “Each has made a unique impact on our community that we are proud to celebrate. As we honor their achievements, we are also excited to showcase the future of commerce with *SOPHIA,* who will embody the potential of technology for business. This event not only reflects on past successes, but also looks ahead to the limitless possibilities that AI can bring to our borough.”
The Bronx Chamber of Commerce’s annual Gala raises funds for the organization, with 100% of all contributions supporting its business and economic development programs. Those interested in remaining sponsorship opportunities, ticket and table purchases, journal ads and other inquiries can learn more by visitingbronxchamber.org/bxccgala-2024, emailing events@bronxchamber.org, or calling 718-828-3900.
BronxNet Community Television Executive Director Michael Max Knobbe will be joining *SOPHIA* as co-host of this program. The gala will also feature a live performance by Bronx-bred singer Steven Maglio, as well as other entertainment to be announced.
